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USDA seeking REAP applications in Pacific
HILO, Hawaii— USDA Rural Development is seeking applications for the Rural Energy for America Program to compete for FY 2016 funding. Grant applications for Hawaii and the Western Pacific are due by close of business May 2, 2016. Loan guarantees are competed throughout the year.
Last year, the Hawaii/Western Pacific region received 17 awards totaling more than $1.4 million through the REAP program. Loan guarantees cover up to 75 percent of total eligible project costs with grants covering up to 25 percent. A loan-grant combination may fund up to 75 percent of total eligible project costs.
REAP grants are available to agricultural producers with at least 50 percent of their gross income coming from agricultural operations and small businesses in eligible rural areas. Funds can be used for the purchase, installation and construction of renewable energy systems such as small and large solar and wind generation, hydropower below 30 megawatts, biomass, geothermal and ocean generation.
When making energy efficiency improvements, funds may be used for the following: high efficiency heating; ventilation and air conditioning systems; insulation; lighting; cooling or refrigeration units; doors and windows; electric; solar or gravity pumps for sprinkler pivots; switching from diesel to electric irrigation motor; and replacement of energy-inefficient equipment.
For more information on the REAP program, contact John Antonio, state energy coordinator at (808) 933-8318 or john.antonio@hi.usda.gov.
Additional contacts include the following Business Programs Specialists:
Hawaii & Maui County: Lori M. Nekoba, Program Specialist, (808) 933-8312 or lori.nekoba@hi.usda.gov.
Oahu, Kauai & American Samoa: Shirley M.U. Heatherly, Program Specialist, (808) 541-2600 Ext. 139 or Shirley.heatherly@hi.usda.gov.
Western Pacific: Anthony C. Barcinas, Program Specialist, (671) 300-8567 or Anthony.barcinas@pb.usda.gov.
President Obama’s plan for rural America has brought about historic investment and resulted in stronger rural communities. Under the President’s leadership, these investments in housing, community facilities, businesses and infrastructure have empowered rural America to continue leading the way-strengthening America’s economy, small towns and rural communities.
